About the Book
Book: The Divine Kumbh: Echoes of Eternity: Ganga, Shipra, Godavari, and Sangam
Publisher: Niyogi Books Private Limited
Price: Rs 695 Pages: 180
The book is a radical journey of the Naga sadhus, the traditions of the akharas, and the timeless practices of devotion, writes ABHI SINGHAL
Taking you through the world’s largest congregation of the Kumbh Mela, the book The Divine Kumbh: Echoes of Eternity: Ganga, Shipra, Godavari, and Sangam takes you through the different mythologies, meanings, and history that revolves around this biggest Hindu gathering.
Deepak Kumar Sen’s book explores life at the Kumbh Mela, where millions of devotees unite at India’s sacred rivers every 12 years. The book is richly illustrated with beautiful and soulful pictures that unravel ancient mythology, dynamic rituals, and deep spirituality.
The book has chapters that take you through the akharas, the life of aesthetic monks, and their traditions and practices. The chapter on the Juna and Nirmohi akharas is a deep dive into the traditions, lineages, and formations of these akharas.
Because of the numerous tales surrounding them, many people attend the Mela to see the procession of the Naga sadhus, which are said to exit the mela unknowingly after the snan. Travellers from all over the world swarm to the Kumbh Mela to see the extraordinary presence of Naga babas mediating and carrying out various rites. The Naga sadhus are a talk that is very excitedly shared among the people, about their lives and where they live. The book provides detailed insights into the life and actions of Naga sadhus, the reasons why they stay naked, and much more stepping into their world.
The book also takes you through the relationship between the moksha and the Kumbh, explaining the cycle of life and death.
The notable chapter of the book is about the Shahi Snan which talks about the royal bathing done by the saints that is associated with bathing of different akharas on specific days of the Kumbh mela. The pages in the book take you through various camps formed for the Nirvana Naga Gosains, Niranjani, Bairagis, and the other three.
According to the event timetable, the Purna (full) Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of a river once every twelve years in four locations: Prayag (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nasik. It is based on the movement of planets. Haridwar and Prayag host the Ardh (half) Kumbh Mela every six years.
According to Sen, the precise zodiacal positions of the Sun, Moon, and planet Jupiter, kumbh is celebrated at these locations. The venue for the next Kumbh Mela is chosen at the holiest time, occurring at the exact moment when these zodiacal conditions are fulfilled.
The book provides a comprehensive insight into the essence of the Mela. It beautifully bridges the ancient heritage with modern innovations, showcasing how the Kumbh is a global phenomenon while retaining its spiritual core.
The main attraction of the book is the vivid imagery beautifully being a double spreader on the pages between the writeups. The images give a beautiful representation of the written history and truth that define this iconic event.
The Divine Kumbh invites readers on a profound journey to experience the magic, faith, and cultural richness of one of humanity’s most enduring spiritual traditions.
The book is a must-read for those wishing to connect with the soul of India and understand the unparalleled significance of the Kumbh Mela.
